How to Make BBQ Meatballs on the Stove

Introduction

Barbecue meatballs are a flavorful and easy to make dish that can be prepared right on your stovetop. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a tasty appetizer or main course ready in under an hour. The key to great barbecue meatballs is allowing time for the sauce to really soak into the meatballs to give them that iconic smoky, sweet and tangy barbecue flavor. Follow this simple recipe to learn how to make delicious barbecue meatballs on the stove without firing up the grill.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1/4 cup water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Meatball Mix

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder and onion powder.
2. Use your hands to mix everything together well until fully incorporated.

Form the Meatballs

1. Shape the meat mixture into balls about 1-1.5 inches in size.
2. Place the shaped meatballs on a plate or baking sheet. Make all the meatballs first before cooking.

Brown the Meatballs

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil.
2. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
3. Cook each batch for 2-3 minutes per side until nicely browned all over.
4. Remove each batch to a clean plate once browned.

Make the Barbecue Sauce

1. In a small bowl, stir together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar and mustard.
2. Add the sauce mixture to the same skillet you browned the meatballs in.
3. Add the water and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

Simmer the Meatballs

1. Carefully add the browned meatballs back into the skillet with the sauce.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
3. Gently turn the meatballs occasionally to coat them in the sauce as they cook.
4. Once the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has reduced down slightly, they are ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the barbecue meatballs warm right away with toothpicks.
• Use as a topping for nachos or baked potatoes.
• Spoon over rice or pasta.
• Add to sandwiches or sliders.
• Top a pizza with the meatballs.
• Enjoy as an appetizer with veggies and ranch dressing.

Tips for the Best Barbecue Meatballs

• Use a blend of ground beef and ground pork or turkey for flavor.
• Chill the meatball mix for 30 minutes before shaping for firmer meatballs.
• Use stale breadcrumbs for added texture.
• For tender meatballs, handle the mix gently and don’t over-pack.
• Cook the meatballs in batches to avoid crowding the pan.
• Simmer low and slow in the sauce for maximum flavor absorption.
• Brush with the sauce the last 5 minutes only if you want a tacky coating.
• Swap the barbecue sauce for your favorite variety like teriyaki or buffalo.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of ground meat is best?

Ground beef or a blend of ground beef and ground pork or turkey works well. Avoid super lean ground meat. Go for 80/20 ground beef for moist and tender meatballs.

Can the meatballs be made ahead?

Yes, shape the meatballs then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.

How long will the cooked meatballs keep?

The cooked meatballs will keep refrigerated for 3-4 days stored in an airtight container. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I freeze the uncooked or cooked meatballs?

Absolutely! Freeze uncooked shaped meatballs on a parchment lined baking sheet then transfer to a freezer bag once hard. Cooked meatballs can also be frozen in an airtight container for 2-3 months.

What sides go well with barbecue meatballs?

Great sides include baked beans, coleslaw, cornbread, rice, mac and cheese or a fresh garden salad.

Conclusion

Barbecue meatballs made right on the stovetop are an easy and delicious option for appetizers, game day foods, weeknight dinners and more. Allowing the meatballs to slowly simmer in a homemade barbecue sauce is the key to infusing them with sweet, smoky and tangy flavor. Follow this simple how to make bbq meatballs on the stove recipe for a tasty crowd-pleasing dish. Switch up the sauce or play with different meat combinations to put your own spin on this classic.